Adrian Mendoza’s Generational Career of Legacy & Leadership

For more than three decades, Adrian Mendoza has been a vital part of our company. Now serving as Operations Manager at our Rice Mill in Belle Glade, his career story is one of legacy, dedication and desire to grow.

Adrian oversees all operations at our rice mill, which is the only rice mill in Florida and produces enough rice to feed millions of people each year. He manages a team of 33 employees, ensuring a safe and efficient process from production to packaging. As a leader, he champions high standards of safety and quality while maximizing productivity.

Adrian’s connection with Florida Crystals runs deep. His father, Jesús, dedicated nearly 30 years here as a truck driver. When Adrian was nearing graduation from Clewiston High School, his father convinced him to apply for a job with us. Adrian recalls growing up watching his father work hard, provide for their family and have a prosperous career, which made him follow in his footsteps, take his advice and start his journey as a Bulk Car Assistant.

“Watching my dad put in nearly 30 years of dedicated service here, I saw what a stable and supportive workplace this was,” Adrian said. “He always encouraged me, saying if I wanted to stay in the area after high school, this was the place to build a career.”

Adrian quickly earned a reputation for his strong work ethic and willingness to go the extra mile. Over time, his drive propelled him through a range of roles, including Union Representative for the Distribution Center, Warehouse Supervisor, Warehouse 3 Superintendent and eventually to his current role as Operations Manager at the rice mill, which he assumed in 2017.

Under his leadership, the operation has thrived and has diversified its offerings, adding new products such as heat-treated flour and biochar made from rice hulls. The rice mill is on track to reach six years with no lost time accidents this September.

Both during harvest and the off-season, Adrian ensures the team operates efficiently and effectively. He takes pride in helping his team reach their potential and ensure they feel valued. “Every employee here is an expert in their craft,” he says. “It’s this expertise and the teamwork here that make our operation run so smoothly. Our team strives to be the standard across the company.”

For Adrian, the challenges and growth opportunities here are what keep him energized. “This company is heading in such a positive direction,” he shares. “Between the relationships I’ve built and the new projects we’re working on, there’s always something exciting to tackle.”

Adrian also takes pride in encouraging others to build their careers here. “When I meet with my employees, I tell them to stand out by putting their name on their work,” he says. “Hard work and a commitment to improvement get noticed, and that’s how you move up. Be patient, stay focused and take pride in what you do.”

For Adrian, Florida Crystals isn’t just a workplace; it’s a legacy, a source of pride and a community. After 31 years, his passion for the work and his team is as strong as ever. “I feel truly blessed to be where I am,” he says.